Faster than expected growth in Auckland could see the equivalent of the population of the Wellington region added there in the next 25 years.
The region's population was expected to reach the two million by the year 2050 - but could now get there 15 years earlier. The population is currently at 1.4 million.
The original Auckland Regional Growth Strategy in 1999 set a ring around the perimeter of the region inside which 70% of future growth would have to be contained - preferably in European style high density housing.
Planners acknowledge the blueprint to reshape the region has had some speed wobbles, but they now believe they are better equipped to manage the creation of new types of higher density neighbourhoods.
Large scale developments include:
A new community envisaged at the former RNZAF base at Hobsonville in west Auckland
The Flat Bush development in South Auckland, where eventually 40,000 people will live. Stage one is almost complete.
Hear more on Auckland's growth in Insight on Radio New Zealand.
